QSP postdoctoral scientist

Initial Therapeutics, Inc.; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 58,000 - 123,200; Full time

Job summary

Lilly seeks a highly motivated postdoctoral scientist to join the Global PKPD group to develop AI-powered QSP models that integrate deep biological knowledge, pharmacology, and preclinical/clinical data to drive pivotal decisions in drug discovery.

You will design and implement mechanistic ODE-based QSP models, perform parameter estimation and simulations, and communicate results across teams. This fixed-duration role offers opportunities for extension and competitive compensation.

Qualifications

• PhD in quantitative pharmacology, systems biology, biomedical engineering, applied mathematics or related discipline.
• Experience in developing QSP/mechanistic PKPD models or ODE-based models for biological systems.
• Experience with virtual patient populations.
• Proficiency in R, MATLAB/SimBiology, Python, NONMEM, Monolix or related software for model development.
• Experience with parameter estimation and sensitivity analysis.

Responsibilities

• Conduct literature, regulatory and database searches to inform model design and parameterization.
• Design and implement an ODE-based QSP model capturing pharmacokinetics, target biology, and dynamics.
• Perform parameter estimation, simulations and model analysis for drug discovery programs.
• Apply models to inform dosing strategies, risk stratification, or translation questions.
• Communicate modeling results to technical and non-technical audiences; collaborate cross-functionally.
• Maintain documentation of model development.
• Present findings at scientific conferences and publish peer-reviewed articles.
• Author high quality scientific manuscripts.

Skills

QSP modeling

ODE-based PK/PD

Virtual populations

R

Python

MATLAB/SimBiology

NONMEM

Monolix

Parameter estimation

Sensitivity analysis

Education

PhD in quantitative pharmacology, systems biology, biomedical engineering, applied mathematics or related discipline

Tools

MATLAB/SimBiology

Python

NONMEM

Monolix

Job description

At Lilly, the work is demanding because patients are waiting. We unite caring with discovery to help make life better for people around the world, knowing that every decision, every detail, and every day matters. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, our over 50,000 employees around the globe take on complex challenges to discover and deliver life‑changing medicines, strengthen how health is understood and managed, and support the communities we serve. This is hard, urgent, selfless work—but it’s work worth doing. If you’re driven by purpose and ready to bring your best to work that truly matters for patients, we invite you to join us.

Eli Lilly and Company stands at the forefront of groundbreaking research, with a portfolio spanning small molecules, peptides, antibodies, genetic medicines, RNA therapeutics, and more. Our global PKPD group deploys a powerful suite of model‑based approaches—including PBPK, PK/PD, QSP, and pharmacometrics to shape decisions across this diverse portfolio from early discovery through clinical submission and beyond.

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated, scientifically curious, and collaborative postdoctoral scientist to join the Global PKPD group working on developing Quantitative Systems Pharmacology (QSP) models. As a hands‑on QSP scientist, you will work alongside experienced mentors and cross‑functional teams to develop and apply AI‑powered QSP models that integrate deep biological knowledge, pharmacology, and preclinical and clinical data to drive pivotal decisions in drug discovery and development.

Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct systematic literature, regulatory, and database searches to compile relevant preclinical and clinical data needed to inform model design and parameterization.
• Design and implement an ODE‑based QSP model structure that mechanistically captures the relevant drug pharmacokinetics, target/receptor biology, and cellular or physiological dynamics underlying the project’s research question.
• Perform parameter estimation, model simulations and model analysis to inform drug discovery and/or development programs in a timely manner.
• Apply the validated model to generate quantitative insights that inform dosing strategies, risk stratification, or other translational and clinical development questions.
• Clearly communicate modeling results to technical and non‑technical audiences; collaborate cross‑functionally with relevant scientific groups.
• Maintain documentation of model development.
• Present findings at scientific conferences (e.g., ACoP, PAGE, ASCPT)
• Author high quality peer‑reviewed scientific articles.

Basic Qualifications

• PhD in quantitative pharmacology, systems biology, biomedical engineering, applied mathematics or related discipline
• Experience in developing QSP/mechanistic PKPD models or ODE‑based models for biological system
• Experience with development of virtual patient populations
• Proficiency in R, MATLAB/Simbiology, Python, NONMEM, Monolix or other related software for model development
• Experience with parameter estimation, sensitivity analysis
• Qualified applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a full‑time basis. Lilly will not provide support for or sponsor work authorization or visas for this role, including but not limited to F‑1 CPT, F‑1 OPT, F‑1 STEM OPT, J‑1, H‑1B, TN, O‑1, E‑3, H‑1B1, or L‑1.

Additional Skills/Preferences

• Knowledge in T cell engager bispecifics and immunology
• Understanding of PK/PD, pharmacology, drug discovery and development
• Enthusiasm for integrating AI/ML tools and emerging technologies into modeling workflows
• Strong problem solving skills both independently and collaboratively
• Excellent time‑management and organizational skills; thrives in a dynamic, fast‑paced environment
• Ability to clearly communicate scientific concepts and modeling results to multidisciplinary audiences
• Strong publication record

Additional Information

• This position is not permanent. It is for a fixed duration of two years with potential to extend to 3 years. You will have opportunities to apply for full‑time positions after your duration is complete

Lilly is dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities to actively engage in the workforce, ensuring equal opportunities when vying for positions. If you require accommodation to submit a resume for a position at Lilly, please complete the accommodation request form https://careers.lilly.com/us/en/workplace-accommodation for further assistance. Please note this is for individuals to request an accommodation as part of the application process and any other correspondence will not receive a response.

Lilly is proud to be an EEO Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, gender identity, sex, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.

Actual compensation will depend on a candidate’s education, experience, skills, and geographic location. The anticipated wage for this position is $58,000 - $123,200. Full‑time equivalent employees also will be eligible for a company bonus (depending, in part, on company and individual performance). In addition, Lilly offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees, including eligibility to participate in a company‑sponsored 401(k); pension; vacation benefits; eligibility for medical, dental, vision and prescription drug benefits; flexible benefits (e.g., healthcare and/or dependent day‑care flexible spending accounts); life insurance and death benefits; certain time off and leave of absence benefits; and well‑being benefits (e.g., employee assistance program, fitness benefits, and employee clubs and activities). Lilly reserves the right to amend, modify, or terminate its compensation and benefit programs in its sole discretion and Lilly’s compensation practices and guidelines will apply regarding the details of any promotion or transfer of Lilly employees.